There’s a lot to be said about uniforms making the brand, but what about the effect of employee uniforms on employee satisfaction? Do the clothes make the man (or woman) happy? Should they?
While it’s true that not all employees jump at the chance to put on a uniform, there are three important considerations that will help them come around eventually.
Employee Uniforms Provide Important Functionality
The more specialized the job, the more specialized the function.
This can’t be understated. Most employees have a job to do and you want their uniform to help, not hinder them. Imagine a waitress without pockets or a chef without an apron. Now give them both sleeves that are too long and must constantly be rolled up. You’ve just gone from not giving them what they need to giving them something that makes their job harder.
It doesn’t have to be function without form. Just function first.
Employee Uniforms Contribute To Overall Branding
You can give everyone plain uniforms or you can do something distinct that will make your brand recognizable.
It doesn’t have to be a tacked on logo either. It could be as simple as a color scheme. Just think about the kind of camaraderie sports fans have when they paint their faces the same color or wear the same team’s jersey. You’ll probably have a more conservative look, but the effect of employee uniforms on employee satisfaction will be the same.
If you have a high-end brand, your employee uniforms should reflect that. Dressing up adds confidence by itself, and compliments from others won’t hurt. The more professional they look, the more professional they’ll feel.
Having a clearly identifiable uniform also helps them interact with customers or guests. There’s an added sense of authority that comes from looking like you work there.
Comfort Is An Important Part Of Employees Liking Their Uniforms
Don’t forget that these are human beings wearing the uniform. This doesn’t mean outfitting everyone in pajamas, but comfort is still key.
The clothes should fit properly. Get everyone measured to be outfitted or at least make sure to get their size. This not only affects comfort but the look as well. Confidence and professionalism go out the window when your shirt sags in all the wrong places.
Other comforts may depend on the job. A doorman will surely be grateful for a well fitted a wool overcoat on a cold winter night. A chef might appreciate a stain-resistant chef coat, as chefs like to be pristine. The key is not bending over backward to accommodate individuals, but thinking about each job function and making sure the uniform looks good and is not uncomfortable.
Employees truly get to know a uniform by working in them. The effect of employee uniforms on employee satisfaction should be a positive one.
